simmer — 1650s, alteration of simperen to simmer (late 15c.), possibly of imitative origin. Figurative sense, of feelings, to be agitated is from 1764. Opposite sense, in simmer down, first recorded 1871. I must and will keep shady and quiet till Bret… … Etymology dictionary

simmer — ► VERB 1) stay or cause to stay just below boiling point while bubbling gently. 2) be in a state of suppressed anger or excitement. 3) (simmer down) become calmer and quieter. ► NOUN ▪ a state or temperature just below boiling point. ORIGIN from… … English terms dictionary

simmer — [sim′ər] vi. [earlier simper &LT; LME simperen: orig. echoic] 1. to remain at or just below the boiling point, usually forming tiny bubbles with a low, murmuring sound 2. to be about to break out, as in anger, revolt, etc. vt. 1. to keep (a… … English World dictionary

Simmer — Sim mer, v. t. To cause to boil gently; to cook in liquid heated almost or just to the boiling point. [1913 Webster] … The Collaborative International Dictionary of English